These Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets are a fun and tasty meal! Just combine chicken, veggies, and spices, then seal them in foil and grill or bake until everything is juicy and flavorful.
I love how easy they are to make and clean up—just toss away the foil! Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend. You’ll feel like a cooking superstar! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the meal light and easy. If you’re looking for something leaner, turkey breasts work well too. You can also use thighs if you prefer darker meat; they stay juicy while cooking.
Corn: You can use fresh corn when it’s in season, or frozen corn works just as well. Canned corn is another option—just rinse it first! If corn isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap in diced zucchini or mushrooms.
Black beans: Essential for adding protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan of black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans are great substitutes. For a lower-carb option, you can skip the beans altogether.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice flavor, but if you want something different, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. If you want a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese or skip it and add a squeeze of lime instead.
Spices: The spices really bring this dish to life! If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or opt for a spicy seasoning blend. For a milder version, consider using paprika instead of smoked paprika.
How Do I Seal and Cook the Foil Packets Perfectly?
Sealing the foil packets properly is key to keeping everything juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cut large sheets of aluminum foil—about 12 inches long. This gives enough room to fold them securely.
- Place the chicken and veggies in the center of the foil. Be careful not to overfill, as this makes it hard to seal.
- Fold the long sides of the foil over the chicken first, then fold the ends to make a tight seal. It should look like a little pouch.
- If you’re grilling, place the sealed side up for even cooking. For baking, you can place them on a baking sheet.
- When opening the packets, do so away from your face to avoid steam burns!
This method ensures the chicken stays moist and absorbs all the flavors from the spices and veggies. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lime, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll have a tasty dinner ready in approximately 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat:
First, preheat your grill to medium heat, or if you’re baking, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and quickly!
2. Prepare the Veggie Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, diced red and green bell peppers, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss everything together until well mixed.
3. Assemble the Packets:
Next, tear off four large pieces of aluminum foil—about 12 inches long. Place one chicken breast in the center of each piece of foil. Spoon the colorful vegetable and bean mixture evenly over and around each chicken breast.
4. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each chicken breast. This will melt beautifully while cooking and add a delicious flavor!
5. Seal the Packets:
Now it’s time to fold the foil! Carefully fold the foil around the chicken and veggies to create sealed packets. Make sure they are tightly sealed to keep all the delicious juices inside.
6. Cook the Packets:
Place the foil packets on the grill or on a baking sheet for the oven. Grill or bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve:
Once cooking is complete, carefully open the packets (watch out for the hot steam!). Garnish your meal with fresh cilantro, lime slices, and jalapeño slices if desired. For a fun presentation, serve straight from the foil packets!
Enjoy your easy, flavorful, and colorful Santa Fe inspired meal that’s perfect for busy nights or outdoor cooking!
FAQ for Easy Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first. Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Make sure the chicken is fully thawed for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the contents in a microwave-safe dish or a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Black Beans?
If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can easily substitute pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas. For a low-carb option, try adding more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers instead of beans.
Can I Make These Packets Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep everything and assemble the foil packets in advance. Just keep them refrigerated and cook them within a day or two. When you’re ready to eat, just grill or bake them until fully cooked.
